Why Swift Nature Camp Is the #1 Rated Summer Camp in Wisconsin

As a camp director who has spent over 30 years at Swift Nature Camp, I know that parents searching for the best traditional summer camps in Wisconsin often start with one big question: Who can I really trust with my child? It’s a question that deserves an honest answer. Reviews matter, and real parent feedback matters even more. That’s why so many families turn to CampRatingz, where Swift Nature Camp is proudly listed as the #1 rated summer camp in Wisconsin based on parent reviews.

Let me be clear: camp is full of challenges. It’s not Disneyland, and it’s not meant to be. But those challenges — the healthy, age-appropriate kind — are what help kids grow stronger, more confident, and more independent. At Swift Nature Camp, we’re intentional about every part of the experience. High ratings don’t happen by accident. They come from a culture built on small moments, personal connections, and staff who truly put kids first.

Every summer, I watch the same beautiful scene unfold. A bus pulls up to the Northwoods. A camper steps off — sometimes excited, sometimes nervous, sometimes unsure. And right away, one of our counselors steps forward with a warm smile and says, “We’re really glad you’re here.” That moment sets the tone. Our camp is intentionally small, and that small size is one of the biggest reasons families choose us. We know every child by name. We understand who needs extra reassurance, who’s ready for a challenge, and who simply needs someone to listen.

Once kids feel safe, something wonderful happens: confidence starts to grow. I’ve seen campers who arrived shy suddenly volunteering for the talent show by the end of the session. Kids who barely touched a canoe at home discover they can paddle across the lake with pride. Campers who were unsure about making friends end up leaving with inside jokes, memories, and friendships that last far beyond the summer. To me, that’s what a traditional summer camp in Wisconsin should be — a place where nature, friendship, and personal growth come together in real and meaningful ways.

Another thing I hear from parents time and time again is how many campers choose to return year after year. Children don’t beg to go back to a place that didn’t care for them. They return to places where they felt safe, valued, challenged, and supported. Parents often tell me their child comes home more confident, more independent, and already counting the days until next summer. That kind of loyalty says more about Swift Nature Camp than any brochure ever could.

For families looking for a traditional Wisconsin summer camp — one grounded in nature, community, and genuine personal growth — I truly believe Swift Nature Camp is worth exploring. Our focus on each child, our caring and experienced staff, and our intentionally small size are exactly why parents have given us such strong reviews and why we’ve earned our spot as one of the best camps in Wisconsin.

If you want your child to spend their summer growing, exploring, making real friends, and feeling truly supported, I’d be honored to welcome your family to the Swift Nature Camp community.

— Lonnie
Camp Director, Swift Nature Camp

Swift Nature Camp Recognized

America's Best Summer Camps 2023 by Newsweek Magazine

Summer camps are an iconic American tradition. According to the American Camp Association (ACA), approximately 20 million kids go to summer camp each year—and for good reason. Camps can offer children a unique opportunity to explore new interests, make lasting friendships, and gain independence in a fun and supportive environment.

With over 12,000 summer camps across the United States, it can be daunting for parents to search for, vet and select the best camp for their kids. Choosing a summer program requires careful consideration of a camper's interests and personality. By doing your research and asking the right questions, you can find a summer camp that provides a fun, safe and rewarding experience for your child.

To that end, Newsweek the 500 best summer camps in the U.S. "America's Best Summer Camps 2023" recognizes the top summer camps in the United States, categorized by state, based on social media reviews and a comprehensive survey of 15,000 parents. The list is composed of approximately two-thirds non-profit and one-third for-profit camps; 483 have earned ACA accreditation.

Swift Nature Camp is a summer camp located in Wisconsin, USA, that focuses on providing children with opportunities to learn about nature, science, and the environment. It has been recognized as one of the best summer camps in the country by Newsweek magazine.

There are several reasons why Swift Nature Camp may have received this recognition. Firstly, the camp has a strong focus on providing educational and engaging activities for children. Campers are encouraged to explore nature and participate in activities such as hiking, bird watching, and animal tracking. The camp also has a science and nature center where campers can learn about various topics related to the environment.

Secondly, the camp has a strong sense of community and encourages campers to develop social skills and make new friends. The camp is intentionally designed to be a smaller size to encourage a sense of community, and the staff works to create a supportive and inclusive environment.

Finally, the camp has a strong reputation for safety and staff training. Swift Nature Camp has been accredited by the American Camp Association, which means it meets high standards for health, safety, and program quality. The Camp Directors Lonnie & Jeff have been runnng camp for 28 years and insure the staff also undergoes extensive training to to be sure they are equipped to handle a wide range of camper situations.

Overall, Swift Nature Camp's focus on education, community, and safety may have contributed to its recognition as one of the best summer camps in the country by Newsweek magazine. Learn More about their exclusive 1st timer camp

Visit https://www.newsweek.com/rankings/americas-best-summer-camps-2023 to see all the best camps.

Do you know kids & teens looking for a fantastic, good ol' days, totally hip & fun summer adventure that's reasonably priced?

Delighting both girls and boys, Swift Nature Camp has been a favorite childhood experience for my boys each summer since 2003. I trust the directors, I adore the counselors, I appreciate the outside active fun, and I love the gorgeous setting. And, I love that it's cheaper than my daughter's camp! Swimming, canoeing, fishing, tubing, riflery, archery, crafts, camp fires, camping trips, clowning, & good ol' capture the flag in the woods are some of what my kids love about Swift. The break from school kids, family life, and electronics gives them the awesome experience of pursuing new and different activities with fresh, friendly kids that just want to have fun without the drama. Not once in our 12 sessions did I receive a letter from the boys feeling down at camp. In fact, when they came home, they always said they wanted to stay longer next time. I'd love for you to learn more about this camp in Minong, Wisconsin. It has been a key factor in shaping my kids into the people I love today. Check it out.

The above note was taken from a camp families facebook page. At SNC our goal is to be part of your childs development and help your child be the best person they can be and get ready for life filled with self confidence and independance. Please see our other Parent Testimonials.